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Today we are thrilled to announce the 2017 Disney Legends. Oprah Winfrey, Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, and Stan Lee are among the honorees who will be inducted at the ceremony, Friday, July 14 at D23 Expo, hosted by Bob Iger. Walt Disney Imagineer Wayne Jackson, who developed attractions for Disney Parks around the world, will also be inducted, as well as animators Clyde “Gerry” Geronimi and Manuel Gonzales; director Garry Marshall; and The Lion King on Broadway director Julie Taymor. 2017 marks the 30th anniversary of Disney Legends, which honors those who have made indelible contributions to the Disney legacy. Fred MacMurray was the first Legend, inducted in 1987. D23 Expo will take place July 14-16 at the Anaheim Convention Center, across the street from Disneyland Resort. Tickets and more information are available now at D23expo.com. View the full article

Excitement is building for this summer’s release of Disney’s rip-roaring adventure “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.” New posters have just been released, featuring Captain Jack Sparrow and other characters from the new movie, and beginning April 21, guests visiting Disney Parks and Resorts will be able to preview scenes from the film in sneak peeks planned for Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, and Disney Cruise Line! At Disney California Adventure park, the preview of “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” will be presented in 3D with special in-theater effects at the Sunset Showcase Theater in Hollywood Land, while guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will get to see this advance look at clips from the film as part of the One Man’s Dream attraction. If you’re heading out to sea with Disney Cruise Line, you can enjoy a sneak peek aboard all four ships in the fleet, on select sailings this summer. Johnny Depp returns to the big screen as the iconic, swashbuckling anti-hero Jack Sparrow in the all-new “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.” The epic tale finds down-on-his-luck Captain Jack feeling the winds of ill-fortune blowing strongly his way when deadly ghost sailors, led by the terrifying Captain Salazar (Javier Bardem), escape from the Devil’s Triangle bent on killing every pirate at sea—notably Jack. Jack’s only hope of survival lies in the legendary Trident of Poseidon, but to find it he must forge an uneasy alliance with Carina Smyth (Kaya Scodelario), a brilliant and beautiful astronomer, and Henry (Brenton Thwaites), a headstrong young sailor in the Royal Navy. At the helm of the Dying Gull, his pitifully small and shabby ship, Captain Jack seeks not only to reverse his recent spate of ill fortune, but to save his very life from the most formidable and malicious foe he has ever faced. Plan to catch our sneak peek of scenes from the film at Disney Parks and on Disney Cruise Line starting April 21, and set sail with “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” in 3D on May 26, when it has its premiere at sea aboard the ships of Disney Cruise Line and is released to theaters across the U.S. Looking for even more adventure? Be sure to enter the Disney “Pirates of the Caribbean” Land & Sea Sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip for 4 to Walt Disney World Resort and a Disney Cruise Line trip to the Caribbean! You’ll embark on Disney Cruise Line, where there is something for every member of your crew, and then come ashore for a visit to Walt Disney World Resort, all in one epic vacation! To enter, post your pirate-inspired photo on Twitter and/or Instagram with #PiratesLifeSweepstakes for a chance to set sail on a swashbuckling adventure! Official rules: Disney.com/PiratesLifeSweepstakesRules Prize: 6 day/5 night trip for (4) to Walt Disney World & Disney Cruise Line NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Ends 4/30/17 at 8:59:59 AM PT. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. & D.C. ages 13+. Limit 1 Entry per Twitter and/or Instagram Account per day. Void wherever prohibited or restricted. For full details including odds of winning visit Disney.com/PiratesLifeSweepstakesRules for Official Rules. Sponsor: ABC, Inc. d/b/a Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. View the full article

There are two things that are high on the list of things we LOVE here at the DFB. Learn About: Jiko Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney World Restaurants One: Jiko — The Cooking Place in Animal Kingdom Lodge. And two: MAC AND CHEESE!! Once upon a time, these two things together made for a magical combination, as Jiko’s flavorful, rich, 4-cheese Mac and Cheese used to be served with the Oak-grilled Filet Mignon. However, times change. And for some time now, the signature Filet has instead been served with a rotating side, changing every couple of months or so (which is the reason I always recommended working the system a bit and ordering the Kids’ Macaroni and Cheese to go alongside your dish). For instance, the Filet is currently served with Pumpkin Pap “Isidudu,” Grilled Delta Asparagus, and South African Red Wine Sauce. Until tomorrow. Because — and we are SO PUMPED to tell you this — starting tomorrow (April 7th), the Filet Mignon will once again be served with the Mac and Cheese! With a twist, that is… Oak Grilled Filet with Mac and Cheese The Mac and Cheese will be made with the same four cheese sauce, but will also feature many of the ingredients that can be incorporated into a Bobotie (just click here to read a bit more about this dish as it’s served at Boma, also located in Animal Kingdom Lodge). South Africa Bobotie with Turkey and Mushrooms For this new Mac and Cheese at Jiko, think ingredients like beef, elk, curry spice, onions, dried apricots, golden raisins, and Marcona almonds folded into the Mac and Cheese. By the by, if you would prefer the standard Mac and Cheese… the answer is yes, you will still be able to order the Kids’s version (without the Bobotie elements) to accompany your filet! But, hey, when in Jiko… and really, you should be sure you ARE in Jiko at some point. It’s one of my favorites, and with the Mac and Cheese on the way back TOMORROW, it might be high time to visit for yourself if you haven’t already! What do you think of the return of the Mac and Cheese? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Recipe: Macaroni and Cheese from Jiko at Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Lodge News! Jiko Wine Dinner Announced for April 5th, 2012 News! Jiko Wine Dinners in May at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge View the full article

Forty years ago, in a galaxy far, far away with theaters that lacked stadium seating, the world was introduced to “Star Wars.” Thousands of followers of that film – and the franchise’s seven subsequent films, TV series, merchandise and off-shoot properties – will gather in Orlando for Star Wars... View the full article

Walt Disney World has announced its schedule for 2017 special holiday events at Magic Kingdom theme park, including Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. These are hot tickets, and maybe getting even hotter: Not-So-Scary will kick off in August this year.... View the full article

Parade Operations Specialists bring magic to Disneyland Resort guests by making sure that parades like the Main Street Electrical Parade glow bright as can be. Much of their jobs involve the parade floats, whether it’s making sure they’re show-ready, staging them before the show or even driving some of them down the parade route! Hear all about it from Parade Operations Specialist Mirelle Aguayo in this episode of “Every Role a Starring Role.” View the full article

You don’t see too many planes flying over Walt Disney World, but that changed this morning when the U.S. Navy Blue Angels made two flybys over the Magic Kingdom. This isn’t the first time the performance squadron has graced the skies above Mickey’s place. The Blues did a flyby back in 2015, when... View the full article

It's impossible to go hungry at area theme parks - but it's hard to sort through the wide variety of snacks, entrees, drinks and other treats to find something magical to eat. In the photo gallery above are just a few of the dishes that should be on your theme park food bucket list. I stuck to... View the full article

For those lovers of Magic Kingdom Park special events, you will have 53 days of fun this fall as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party return in all their glory. Here at the Disney Parks Blog, we try to give you as much notice as possible to plan which is why we’re excited about announcing dates for this year’s events. For Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, 32 spook-tacular dates include: August 25, 29 September 1, 7, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29 October 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 31 November 1 Returning to the Magic Kingdom fright-fest are the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular stage show in front of Cinderella Castle featuring the mischievous Sanderson sisters from the hit Disney film “Hocus Pocus,” Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade and “Happy HalloWishes” – one of my favorite fireworks shows.* For Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas, 21 holiday-tastic dates include: November 8, 9, 12, 14, 16, 17, 26, 28 December 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22 Returning favorites for the holidays include Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, “Holiday Wishes,” “A Frozen Holiday Wish” and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration.* We’ll have updates on beloved traditions from the events – any new elements in the coming months. For more information on both events, stay tuned to the site and the Disney Parks Blog for updates on ticket prices, on-sale dates, entertainment and events. Tickets are scheduled to go on sale in early May. *Entertainment subject to change View the full article

If you’ve been dreaming of becoming a Disney Vacation Club Member today is the day! General sales for Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, the newest Disney Vacation Club Resort, are now open (not offered in all states). The Resort, which is currently under construction, is scheduled to open July 17. But you can get a sneak peek at how it’s coming along in this video! Inspired by the legendary mining and railroad history of the Pacific Northwest, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins will offer rustically elegant accommodations, including Deluxe Studios, one- and two-bedroom Villas, and even three-bedroom Grand Villas, which sleep up to 12. The new Resort will also include 26 all-new luxurious waterfront cabins that sleep up to eight and feature two bedrooms, two baths and large dining and living room spaces (not to mention a hot tub)! Look for even more details about this, our 14th Disney Vacation Club Resort, on the Disney Parks Blog in the months to come. Until then, visit DisneyCopperCreek.com to learn more. This promotional material is a timeshare solicitation and is not an offer in any jurisdiction where the timeshare is not registered. View the full article

Today’s Disney Doodle asks the question: what would Timon and Pumbaa do if they had the chance to visit a Disney theme park? According to the imagination of artist Ashley Taylor, visiting the Tree of Life would be high on their must-do list. “I love the Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom,” she said. “It’s easy to imagine Timon and Pumbaa singing Hakuna Matata as they walk across the branches!” Want to see how other Disney characters would spend their day at a park? Check out our list of favorite “Doodles” below. Disney Doodle: Flash Visits Tomorrowland Disney Doodle: ‘Fantasia’ Magic Brooms Clean Up at Magic Kingdom Park Disney Doodle: Tiana & Lottie Enjoy Disney Beignets Disney Doodle: Lumiere Visits The Haunted Mansion Disney Doodle: ‘Big Hero 6’ Pals Take A Spin On Mad Tea Party View the full article

We’re stopping by one of my favorite spots in Walt Disney World — Le Cellier Steakhouse — to see what’s new in The Great White North! Learn About: Le Cellier Steakhouse Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants Well, technically, this isn’t North, it’s South. And we’re not in Canada. But we are in the Canada Pavilion in Epcot. Owing to the architecture and gardens here, this is one of the prettiest spots along World Showcase Promenade. Who doesn’t love journeying back through the pavilion and getting splashed by waterfalls as you walk? You haven’t done it? I highly recommend it. And go see O, Canada! while you’re at it! Martin Short is the best. (Speaking of, when we were in Vancouver for our Alaska cruise last year I couldn’t help but notice that Martin Short is the voice of, like, every single cartoon in Canada.) But while I love exploring the whole area to see what’s new, it’s Le Cellier Steakhouse, the pavilion’s signature dining table service restaurant, that keeps me coming back trip after trip. Le Cellier is a favorite of mine because it features one of my favorite meals in all of Walt Disney World — the Le Cellier Filet. But you know my philosophy: just because something has always been great doesn’t mean it continues to be. We always like to check back in with places — even our favorites — to make sure we can still continue to recommend them. And so, in the name of research, here I am at Le Cellier once again. And this time there was a new favorite… . Atmosphere Meander back along the beautiful gardens, following the signs, and you’ll come to the entrance of Le Cellier Steakhouse. Tucked into the bottom of the chateau that’s the hallmark of the Canada Pavilion, you get a sense that the spot is aptly named. Le Cellier Steakhouse Entrance It always throws me a little, this imagining that I’m in Canada when Florida is so very hot most of the time. Still, as soon as you walk through the doors, the Disney magic kicks in, and you start to feel as though you have indeed traveled north. Stone walls and flooring, along with heavy wood accents, immediately evoke a feeling of…cool. Seating and Paintings in the Lobby As you’re shown into the dining room, take a moment to look at the paintings in the lobby and along your path. All of the paintings are by The Group of Seven, an important school of Canadian painters. The Group of Seven Plaque They’re really lovely, and I always appreciate this nod to Canadian culture here. Lobby Decor — Up Close As you head down the ramp, you’ll glimpse your last rays of sunshine for a bit. Le Cellier Entryway Because Le Cellier is fashioned to look like a wine cellar, all of the light comes from chandeliers and wall sconces that look like candles. While this lighting makes shooting food a nightmare , it is completely gorgeous and lends to the relaxed, refined atmosphere. Le Cellier Steakhouse Dining Room Cozy touches like a fireplace further “trick” you into thinking you’re someplace that would actually need a fireplace. Fireplace A grouping of art glass on the mantelpiece lends a colorful touch to the decor. Decorative Glass on the Mantle of the Fireplace Glittery windows with diagonal muntins that divide up the space and reflect the low light are a charming and functional design element, making the small space appear a little larger. (And it IS a very small space.) Seating is a combination of tables and booths, but there are also comfortable padded benches lining the walls. Tables tend to be pretty close together, however — a fact that I don’t love. Seating On this visit, I ended up at one of these snug little tables, right beside a wall. My Place Setting Time to tuck into dinner and see what’s new at Le Cellier. Eats Because Le Cellier is a signature dining restaurant, the menu tends to change up frequently to reflect seasonal variety and availability. Having said that, there are also signature dishes that never, ever leave, like the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup. This dish is also a mainstay of the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. You’ll also always find a Poutine or two as well. We’ll take a closer look at those in a minute. Menu — Click to Enlarge After a look at the menu, it didn’t take us long to make our choices. We began with a favorite: the Unibroue Beer Flight. The three selections included Éphémère, La Fin du Monde, and Trois Pistoles. Unibroue Beer Flight — Éphémère, La Fin du Monde, Trois Pistoles While I didn’t take a picture of it this trip, rest assured that dinner at Le Cellier still comes with their wonderful bread service — including their much-praised Pretzel Bread Sticks. Sadly, I never get my fill of these, because there’s so much good food here! Complimentary Bread Basket As we sipped our beer, we began by ordering both of the Poutines available during this visit. And here’s where I need to offer a Poutine disclaimer: Yes, I know what real Poutine is. And while I really, really love it, I’m also open to interpretations. After all, the basic idea is Fries with Yummy Stuff On Top Of Them. So, yeah. It’s a win pretty much however you spin it. The good news is that most of the time, normally at least one of the varieties at Le Cellier (we’ve seen as many as three offered at a time) bears a resemblance to the classic dish of Gravy Fries with Cheese Curds. We’ll start with the Le Cellier Signature Poutine. Le Cellier Signature Poutine This one is always my favorite of the offerings, so I’m so glad it stays on the menu. The dish features Fresh-Cut Fries, Canadian Cheddar, Truffles, and a super savory Red Wine Reduction. The flavors here are sharp and strong. It really is a party in your mouth. But I don’t think the kiddos will be as excited about it as you and I are. Signature Poutine — Up Close For comparison’s sake (and because I love Poutine), we also tried the other option, Montréal Poutine. This version was topped with Montréal Smoked Brisket, French Onion Gravy, Gruyere Cheese, Pickled Vegetable Slaw, and Mustard Beer Sauce. This one did not float my boat. I’m not a pickled anything kind of person…nor am I a big mustard fan. If it was just brisket, gruyere, and french onion gravy I’d have been much happier, but the Signature Poutine would still have been the winner. Montréal Poutine The Baked Triple-Cream Brie also caught my eye, so we ordered that as well. (Thanks to 50s Prime Time Cafe and their Boursin cheese dish, I can’t ever pass up a baked or fried cheese app…just in case it’s a contender.) The beautiful plate consisted of a small Brie en Croûte, Pickled Heirloom Beets, Orange Marmalade, Baby Greens, and Hazelnut Praline. Baked Triple-Cream Brie I pretty much just ate the cheese here. A look at the Brie en Croûte up close shows you the melty consistency of the rich Cheese enrobed in the perfectly baked Puff Pastry. It was very nice, but not a must-do. Brie en Croûte — Up Close Next, it was time for the Main Event. I ordered my favorite meal here — the Le Cellier Filet Mignon. Le Cellier Filet and Unibroue Beer Flight I’m accustomed to their changing the side dishes and sauces that accompany the Filet around a bit, but I was very happy to see it served with my two favorites: Mushroom Risotto and Truffle Butter Sauce. It was crowned with Asparagus-Tomato Relish, a new touch. Le Cellier Filet — Up Close As usual, the AAA Canadian Beef Tenderloin was cooked perfectly to my medium-rare specifications. This dish was great as always. The tender, perfectly-cooked filet and the incredibly flavorful risotto accompanied by the truly epic truffle butter sauce…you just can’t go wrong with this. Le Cellier Filet — Inside But, it turns out, you CAN go more RIGHT! I also ordered the Le Cellier Signature Coffee Rubbed Black Angue Rib Eye. I’d shied away from this in the past, because I was worried about the “coffee-rubbed” part. I hate (HATE HATE HATE) sweet steaks, and I’d been burned by Le Cellier on their rib eye before. But the server promised me that the coffee wasn’t a predominant flavor, and I’m so glad she encouraged my trying this rib eye! Coffee Rubbed Rib Eye and Unibroue Beer Flight The boneless rib eye is served atop a bed of Crispy Fingerling Potatoes and Heirloom Carrots, dressed in Nueske’s Bacon Vinaigrette. The plate was finished with a rich Maple Bordelaise Butter. Now despite the coffee rub and the maple butter, this steak was PERFECT. I couldn’t stop eating it! There was so much savory flavor (expected as it’s a rib eye, but this was off the charts), and I didn’t taste any overly sweet notes. Maybe I just got lucky, but this beat out the filet for me on this visit! Coffee Rubbed Rib Eye — Up Close While our meal was more than filling, I wanted to take a look at the Dessert Menu as well. Dessert Menu — Click to Enlarge While there were some intriguing options, we couldn’t pass up the chance to try Le Cellier’s latest take on a Canadian Classic — Nanaimo Pie. The plate consisted of a White Chocolate “Bar” atop a Chocolate Hazelnut Crust, accompanied by Coconut Ice Cream made in-house. This was fine, but it’s nowhere near as good as the previous incarnation. I’d definitely still order the Chocolate Whiskey Trifle for dessert if I were you. Nanaimo Pie The table next to ours ordered the restaurant’s signature dessert, Maple Crème Brûlée, and kindly allowed me to grab a photo of it. While we didn’t have it on this visit, we have enjoyed it before. It’s easy to understand its popularity. Maple Crème Brûlée After another stellar meal, I was ready to head back to Florida and continue my trip Around the World. Overall Le Cellier continues to deliver, and I continue to recommend it as a totally-worth-it, Disney Dining Plan two-credit, signature dining spot. Why? Well, simply put, I love the food. But the cozy ambiance, combined with the consistently good service, are also both worth mentioning and praising. In the past, an advance dining reservation at Le Cellier was nearly impossible to get. But when the restaurant became a two-credit signature restaurant for both lunch and dinner a few years ago, the move seemed to diminish its popularity slightly. Still, if you want to score an ADR here, plan to be on the phone 180 days out for prime dining times. Having said that, I routinely have luck scoring last minute reservations by opting for late lunches. And I will continue to do so as long as my pocketbook can handle it. How do you feel about Le Cellier Steakhouse? Leave a comment below and let me know if it’s a must-do for you as well! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Le Cellier Steakhouse in Epcot’s Canada Pavilion Review: New Lunch Menu at Le Cellier Steakhouse in Epcot’s Canada Pavilion Review: Lunch at Le Cellier in Epcot’s Canada Pavilion (With the NEW Filet!) View the full article

'Beauty and the Beast' Musical Coming to the Disney Dream | Disney Cruise Line View the full article

I love visiting local parks year round to spend time with my family, relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Parks hold a special place in many of our hearts, and I am especially excited this month to invite you to help us celebrate and support some of your favorite parks! For the third year, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is collaborating with Disney Citizenship, Disney|ABC Television Group and ESPN to provide 16 communities with grants of $20,000 to improve local parks through its national Meet Me at the Park initiative. Meet Me at the Park projects will connect kids to nature, inspire kids and families to live healthier lifestyles and increase kids’ access to sports through activities like planting community gardens, improving trails and refurbishing playgrounds or soccer fields. How can you get involved? Each day this month, vote via text or visit NRPA.org/BeInspired to participate in two ways: First, nominate a city anywhere across the United States to be entered for a chance to win a $20,000 grant to support a park in need within that community. Second, vote on one of three park-improvement projects in 15 designated cities to help determine which project will receive a $20,000 grant. At the end of the month, the project with the most votes in each of the designated cities and one write-in city with the most nominations will receive grant funding. Winning parks will implement their park improvement projects this summer. Last year, popular votes helped 16 parks make improvements or expand programs, including Riverwalk Nature Center in Brevard County, Florida, which was able to extend its interactive offerings through a new classroom that included water, climbing and gardening areas, natural play elements and music. After you vote, I hope you have a chance to spend some time in your favorite park! While you are there, you can encourage your friends to vote, too, by taking a selfie in the park and using the hashtags #MeetMeAtThePark, #Parkies and #BeInspired. View the full article

In this week’s video series with Latina Magazine and Growing Up Bilingual blogger, Paula Bendfeldt-Diaz, we learn about the best rides and things to do at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Thrilling attractions like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster are favorites among her familia. When visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios make sure to check out everything Star Wars, just like Paula and her family! That includes riding Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, meeting your favorite characters at Star Wars Launch Bay and more, because as you know, Disney’s Hollywood Studios is the place where Star Wars lives every day! A visit to the park is not complete without a friendly family competencia at Toy Story Mania! I wonder who won… Let’s take a look at Paula’s visit to Disney’s Hollywood Studios! View the full article

The China Pavilion is one of my favorite places to unwind and relax at Epcot. The serene landscapes, tranquil ponds, intricate architecture, and soothing music create an environment that’s so calming and immersive you feel as though you’ve been completely transported from Central Florida. These elaborate details obviously make this a beautiful place to take photos, so I’m excited to share that Disney PhotoPass Service is now offering a new way for you to take home a remarkable keepsake of your visit into our “Forbidden City.” Every evening beginning at 7:30 p.m. (weather permitting), a Disney PhotoPass photographer stationed at the China Pavilion will offer this special prop that you can include in your photos! You can purchase photos taken with this prop individually or receive unlimited digital downloads of all your vacation photos from Disney PhotoPass Service by purchasing Memory Maker before, during or after your visit to Walt Disney World Resort. Memory Maker includes photos taken during the Memory Maker window and linked to the Memory Maker guest’s Disney account. A MagicBand is required to receive certain attraction photos and other digital content. Photos and other digital content will expire pursuant to the expiration policy. Valid theme park admission required for certain photo locations. Memory Maker is subject to Memory Maker terms and, if applicable, Family & Friends terms. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. View the full article

We have another exciting update to share on our work in Asia! As you may remember, Shanghai Disney Resort is scheduled to open its own Toy Story Land in 2018, and Hong Kong Disneyland last year unveiled its plan for a proposed multi-year expansion through 2023. This morning, Tokyo Disney Resort began its own construction work with the groundbreaking of a large-scale development at Tokyo Disneyland through 2020. The ceremony was hosted by the president of Oriental Land Co., Ltd., with help from our pals Mickey and Minnie, and the development is lauded as the resort’s biggest investment since the grand opening of Tokyo DisneySea in 2001. This development will bring immersive new offerings for guests of all ages. In Fantasyland, a breathtaking “Beauty and the Beast”-inspired area will transport you into Belle’s quaint village complete with a new attraction, merchandise location and restaurant. You can catch a glimpse of your favorite characters from the beloved film and brave the Beast’s Castle. You can also enjoy live performances at a dedicated indoor theater. For the first time, you can step into the world of everyone’s favorite robot and ‘personal healthcare companion,’ Baymax, on an attraction inspired by “Big Hero 6” in Tomorrowland. And you’ll be able to walk through Minnie’s design studio in Toontown before meeting the glamorous mouse herself. This development is just one of the many ways we’re looking to add new and exciting experiences for our guests around the world. Stay tuned for more updates on the Tokyo Disneyland development at Tokyo Disney Resort – as well as at Shanghai Disney Resort and Hong Kong Disneyland – right here on the Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Now that you’ve seen the new “Beauty and Beast” live-action film in theaters, I expect you are even more excited about the stage show we’re creating for the Disney Dream. I sure am! To develop this new version of “Beauty and the Beast,” we assembled an all-star creative team, including a talented collection of Broadway artists, to create an imaginative, new approach to this iconic story. Check out this video to get an inside look at how they’re bringing the timeless fable to life like never before … Before the show’s debut in November, we’ll continue to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the making of this spectacular musical. Keep following along on the Disney Parks Blog as we go behind the curtain of a tale as old as time. View the full article

The dining landscape in Disney Springs continues to evolve, and we’re preparing to welcome another new restaurant to the scene as The Polite Pig opens in the Town Center this coming Monday, April 10th! The Polite Pig James and Julie Petrakis are a husband and wife team who own The Ravenous Pig, Cask & Larder and Swine & Sons in Winter Park, FL. ©Disney They’re partnering with James’ brother, Brian, for their newest venture, The Polite Pig, which will bring a new fast-casual dining experience to Disney Springs with a focus on “modern barbecue” (including a seven-sauce toppings bar) and southern sides. The Polite Pig sign Craft beers (featuring Cask & Larder Brewery beers on tap) and cocktails — along with a Bourbon Bar boasting at least 50 offerings — will make up another key component to the menu. Preliminary Menu for The Polite Pig — Click to Enlarge Five house cocktails will be available on tap as well, with the spotlight on the Gin and Tonic and Old-Fashioned known well at The Ravenous Pig. Central Florida natives James and Julie Petrakis will bring the same focus on quality, seasonal ingredients emphasized at their other restaurants, while highlighting wood-smoked and grilled dishes. And we’re all sure to learn lots of lessons in good manners from The Polite Pig, as the “beloved swine” will be represented in the decor, with “whimsical pigs” on display throughout the 190-seat (!!!!!) venue. So, remember to mind your manners … Polite Pig construction signs … because we’ll all want to be on our best behavior when The Polite Pig arrives — promptly at 11:00 am, no less! — in Disney Springs! Are you looking forward to this new dining option in Disney Springs? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: “The Polite Pig” Is On the Way to Disney Springs, Opening Spring 2017 News: D-Luxe Burger to Open May 2016 in Disney Springs News: Sprinkles to Open May 15th in the Town Center of Disney Springs View the full article

When the new fireworks spectacular, “Happily Ever After,” debuts at Magic Kingdom Park May 12, the show will encourage guests to grab hold of their dreams and make them come true. One group of people that the creation of this show has been a literal dream come true for is a handful of seasoned Walt Disney Animation Studios artists who got to break out their pencils again in order to bring some of their favorite Disney characters back to life. That’s because in addition to the latest in fireworks, pyrotechnics, lasers and lights, “Happily Ever After” will also feature new hand-drawn Disney character animation sequences of Ursula, Aladdin, Princess Tiana and more. “For me, it’s a thrill because ‘Aladdin’ was the first film I worked on and to come back and be animating Aladdin again after 25 years, I’m feeling that same sort of excitement again,” said Randy Haycock, Walt Disney Animation Studios. Hand-drawn animation will be combined with innovative projection mapping technology that will bring these characters – as well as characters from more recent films like “Zootopia” and “Tangled” – to life as part of the show. Check out the video above to hear Randy Haycock, Mark Henn and Eric Goldberg talk about their experiences creating animation for “Happily Ever After.” See the posts below for more on “Happily Ever After”: ‘Happily Ever After’ Nighttime Spectacular Will Debut at Magic Kingdom Park May 12 First Listen: Sneak a Peek at Our ‘Happily Ever After’ Theme Song Take A Behind-the-Scenes Look At The Making Of ‘Happily Ever After’ View the full article

The Ravenous Pig owners James and Julie Petrakis will open their newest restaurant, The Polite Pig, on April 10 in Disney Springs. The fast-casual eatery will focus on sustainable and local ingredients. Signature dishes include Peel & Eat Florida Shrimp with bourbon cocktail sauce; Salmon BLT... View the full article

Finishing touches are being made for the April 10 opening of The Polite Pig in Town Center at Disney Springs, the newest concept for award-winning Orlando Chefs James and Julie Petrakis. The husband-wife team, also owners of The Ravenous Pig and Swine & Sons in Winter Park and Cask & Larder at Orlando International Airport, are opening this newest concept with James Petrakis’ brother Brian. The Polite Pig will feature “modern barbecue” in an open kitchen, with Southern sides like a tomato and watermelon salad, mac and cheese and smoked corn with lime butter. (Sauce fans, there’s a bar with seven different ways to top your ‘cue, from Layla’s Sweet to Fresno Hot Sauce.) Add a solid selection of craft beers and cocktails, and a bourbon bar with more than 50 selections, from small batch bourbons to a Pappy Van Winkle 23-Year Family Reserve. We talked with Julie, who met James, by the way, while studying at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y. Both are Central Florida natives. Why did you decide to open at restaurant at Disney Springs? Disney approached us with the idea of opening a fast-casual outpost that would represent the atmosphere and quality of our Winter Park location, The Ravenous Pig. We shared their enthusiasm for bringing a true local restaurant to Disney Springs. Is the menu similar to The Ravenous Pig and Cask & Larder, your other restaurants in Central Florida? I would say that the menu is similar in its approach to using quality, seasonal ingredients, with our signature touch. We’ll have Cask & Larder Brewery beers, cocktails on tap and also an extensive Bourbon Bar. And this restaurant will focus a bit more on wood-smoked and grilled items. Anything you’ll offer at The Polite Pig that will be a signature, or exclusive to that restaurant? Most of the menu will be exclusive to The Polite Pig: modern barbecue with The Ravenous Pig twist. Like the Southern Pig Sandwich with pulled pork off the smoker, apple slaw, mustard sauce and Duke’s mayo; peel-and-eat shrimp with bourbon-cocktail sauce, and crispy Brussels sprouts with whiskey caramel. Who will be the chef daily in The Polite Pig kitchen? We have two of our Ravenous Pig/Cask & Larder veterans at the helm, Jared Thate and Allie Weldon, along with Chef James Petrakis’ guidance and inspiration. Tell us about the craft beer program. We will feature four of our beloved Cask & Larder Brewery brews on tap, as well as a couple other Florida/domestic craft beers. Anything special about The Polite Pig cocktails? We will feature five house cocktails on tap, including some of our crowd favorites from The Ravenous Pig, such as the Gin and Tonic and Old-Fashioned. How many seats and describe the décor. We’ll have 190 seats, and the décor pays homage to the beloved swine of The Polite Pig, as well as antiquity. Whimsical pigs on various adventures can be seen throughout the space, and rustic touches are used for custom featured art pieces. Large faded graphics also adorn the main wall of the space adding to the feel of the long-time family run business. What’s your favorite dish on The Polite Pig menu? My favorite appetizer is the Hop Salt Pretzel with beer cheese fondue and IPA mustard. Favorite sandwich: the Salmon BLT with bacon jam, marinated tomato, romaine and aioli. I love that with a side of charred broccoli tossed with herb buttermilk dressing and house granola. What do you think is the secret to good food? Using quality seasonal ingredients and taking great care of it by enhancing with smoke/cooking, proper seasoning and passion! View the full article

Imagineers Partner With Avatar Filmmakers To Create Pandora - The World of Avatar View the full article

Today, we’re heading into Disney’s Animal Kingdom to do what we always do… Learn About: Mr. Kamal's Animal Kingdom Disney World Restaurants A little exploring, accompanied by a little snacking! And once again, we’re going vegetarian, because that’s a particularly easy thing to do when it comes to snacking at Animal Kingdom. We’ve already learned, in fact , that the focus on providing above par vegetarian options will continue in Animal Kingdom’s upcoming land, Pandora — The World of AVATAR, thanks to a look at the full menu for Satu’li Canteen (the land’s primary dining establishment). But today we’re winding down a well-traveled path heading from the Africa section of Animal Kingdom into Asia, with a visit to Mr. Kamal’s, which remains one of our favorite kiosks in the park. Mr. Kamal’s Kiosk Mr. Kamal’s kiosk has proven itself time and time again as a great (and convenient) spot to grab something quick, portable, and vegetarian. The current menu features Hummus served with mini pitas and veggies, Samosa, and falafel, to give you an idea of what to expect. Since we’ve already noshed on the Hummus and Samosa, this time we grabbed the Falafel, which comes to you in this handy little paper box. (You might remember some time ago when it was served as part of the Falafel Sandwich). Falafel and Tzatiziki — In the Box So here they are, all ready to eat! Falafel and Tzatziki The order comes with five pieces, which are accompanied with a side of Tzatziki Sauce. The texture was spot on, nice and firm outside. Falafel — Up Close The soft middle was packed with the usual chickpeas, parsley, and red pepper. They carried very minimal spice (cumin is traditionally used in Falafel, and I detected a few hints of it), and I could taste some garlic as well. Mr. Kamal’s Falafel Inside The tzatziki sauce was a smooth yogurt with tiny flecks of herbs. It didn’t provide much flavor, but it was a creamy, cool foil to the crunchy and savory falafel. Tzatziki — Up Close Overall, this dish is a decent size for the $4.99 pricetag (or a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan). The Falafel hit all the right flavor and textural notes, and the tzatziki was a solid (though not overly potent) accompaniment. So let’s give one more nod of appreciation to our friend, Mr. Kamal. Don’t worry, buddy… even when Pandora opens (on May 27th!! WE CAN’T WAIT!!!), you can rest assured that we’ll keep stopping by to pay you a visit. Is Mr. Kamal’s one of your favorite snack stops? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review! New Vegetarian Fare and Allergy Kiosk at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Review: Hummus with Vegetables and Pita at Mr. Kamal’s in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Top 5 Restaurants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park View the full article

Congratulations to the Tomorrowland Movers at Walt Disney World Resort for being crowned the ultimate Disney attraction for March Magic 2017. The Tomorrowland Movers defeated the Gracey Manor Ghouls in the championship match-up held on April 3 via the official Walt Disney World Facebook page. The March Magic 2017 online fan vote began in mid-March with 18 teams inspired by attractions from across all four parks at Walt Disney World Resort. This year’s champion team was inspired by the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover attraction in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom Park. Since July 1, 1975, guests have taken the 10-minute tour of Tomorrowland aboard this emission-free mass transit system of the future. During the narrated tour, guests go behind the scenes of some of Tomorrowland’s most popular attractions including Space Mountain or Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. You will also spot early architectural models of Progress City, a conceptual predecessor of Epcot. To celebrate, we are introducing a specially designed Tomorrowland Movers logo jersey with matching logo bag. Guests may find the new champion gear and all other March Magic 2017 commemorative products until April 13 on DisneyStore.com/MarchMagic. Thank you to Disney Parks fans who voted for their favorite attraction-inspired teams during March Magic this year. I loved seeing your excitement and reading comments about favorite Disney memories during each match-up. View the full article